Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

San Antonio, TX Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: UDC § 35-523 Tree Preservation (Heritage and Significant Tree Protection) →

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Key Facts

Code Section: UDC § 35-523; § 35-C110 (Fees)
Definition: 24+ inches DBH
Protection: 100% preservation required
Multi-Trunk: Largest trunk + 50% of additional trunks
Mitigation: Cash to tree fund or replacement plantings

Summary

Heritage trees in San Antonio are defined as any tree measuring 24 inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH) under UDC § 35-523. Heritage trees must be preserved at 100% — removal is only permitted with mitigation approved by the Tree Preservation Commission. Multi-trunk trees are measured with the largest trunk at full DBH plus 50% of the remaining trunks. Fees for heritage tree removal are in UDC Appendix C (§ 35-C110).

Full Breakdown

San Antonio may designate certain trees as heritage, landmark, or specimen trees based on criteria including trunk diameter (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, historical significance, or ecological value. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection beyond standard tree ordinances. Removal requires special council or commission approval and is rarely granted except for safety. Construction projects must protect heritage trees with root zone barriers. Damage during construction triggers fines and remediation. Residents can nominate trees for heritage status.

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized removal of heritage tree: $2,000 to $25,000. Damage during construction: $1,000 to $10,000 plus remediation costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a heritage tree in San Antonio?

Any tree measuring 24 inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH) is classified as a heritage tree under UDC § 35-523. Multi-trunk trees are measured using the largest trunk at full DBH plus 50% of the sum of additional trunks.

Can a heritage tree ever be removed?

Only with approval from the Tree Preservation Commission and proper mitigation — either replacement plantings or a cash payment to the city's tree mitigation fund. Heritage trees must be preserved at 100% unless removal is specifically authorized.

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San Antonio, TX Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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